Tejas Mk-1A: Fighter Jet Fitted With Astra Missiles & Laser Bombs May Join IAF Fleet Next Month

Last Updated:September 06, 2025, 12:17 IST

Sources said Tejas Mark-1A will undergo firing trials this month for Astra BVR missile, Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile, and precision laser-guided bombs

The trials will assess whether the integration of the weapons with the Israeli-origin Elta ELM-2052 radar and fire control system has been properly executed. (PTI/File)

The Tejas Mark-1A fighter jet is set to join the Indian Air Force with advanced weaponry, boosting its combat capabilities and strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing, a move that could even surprise traditional suppliers like France and Russia.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to deliver the first two upgraded Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets to the IAF in October. This delivery is contingent on the successful completion of scheduled weapon firing trials.

Software Modifications With Modern Weapons

Sources report that firing trials for the Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile, Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile, and laser-guided bombs are planned for the Tejas Mark-1A by the end of this month. These trials will assess whether the integration of the weapons with the Israeli-origin Elta ELM-2052 radar and fire control system has been properly executed. According to The Times of India, software modifications were necessary following the failure of previous trials.

GE Engines, Upgrades Power Tejas Mark-1A

The Tejas Mark-1A project relies on engines supplied by American firm General Electric (GE). HAL had placed an order for 99 GE-404 engines worth Rs 5,375 crore in August 2021, and two engines have already been delivered.

GE has committed to delivering 10 more engines by March 2026, with 20 engines to be supplied annually thereafter. Additionally, technical challenges in weapon and radar integration have impacted production.

The IAF has received 38 of the 40 Tejas Mark-1 aircraft initially ordered for Rs 8,802 crore in 2006 and 2010.

Recently, the Prime Minister-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) sanctioned the purchase of 97 more Tejas jets for Rs 66,500 crore, further increasing the total number.

Presently, the IAF has 31 squadrons, but with the retirement of 36 old MiG-21 fighter jets on 26 September, this number will drop to 29 squadrons.

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